09/16/2026
It’s National Coaches Week!
Sport doesn’t become inclusive by accident.
It happens because someone steps up. Someone adapts the drill, finds a way to make it work, welcomes a new athlete, creates space, or simply says, “Yes, you belong here.”
For kids with disabilities, that person is often a coach or program leader. They can be the difference between a child having a positive first experience with sport and deciding that sport isn’t for them.
That’s why, this National Coaches Week, we’re celebrating some of the people who make participation possible. The coaches, instructors, teachers, volunteers and program leaders who show up, solve problems, challenge assumptions and create opportunities for kids with disabilities to play, learn and find their place in sport.
Some of the people pictured here are coaches. Others are the people behind the programs that help make inclusive sport happen. All of them are helping create more opportunities for kids to participate.
Because all kids deserve access to sport. And sometimes, making that happen starts with one person willing to make space.
This week, join us in celebrating the people who help athletes and participants discover what sport can be.
Know someone who makes space for everyone? Tag them and tell them why you’re thankful.
Learn more about National Coaches Week through the Coaching Association of Canada.
📸 Mark Steffens + Gerry Kripps